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How do I file an amended federal tax return?

By Emily Wilson |

Use Form 1040X to amend a federal income tax return that you filed before. Make sure you check the box at the top of the form that shows which year you are amending. Since you can’t e-file an amended return, you’ll need to file your Form 1040X on paper and mail it to the IRS.

When can I file an amended tax return?

Generally, you must file an amended return within three years from the date you filed your original return or within two years from the date you paid any tax due, whichever is later. If you filed your original return before the due date (usually April 15), it’s considered filed on the due date.

What documents are needed for an amended tax return?

The IRS form for amending a return is Form 1040-X. You’ll also need any forms that will be impacted by your change. For example, if you’re changing your itemized deductions, you’ll also need a copy of Schedule A for that tax year.

What happens if you don’t file an amended tax return?

Interest is charged on any tax not paid by the due date of the original return, without regard to extensions. The IRS will compute the interest and send you a bill if you don’t include it.

Where do I Send my amended tax return?

You must file Form 1040X on paper and mail it to the IRS. If you’re due a refund, the IRS will issue you a check; a refund on an amended return can’t be deposited directly to your bank account.

Is there a way to amend the Form 1040?

You can now submit the Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return electronically using available tax software products. Only tax year 2019 Forms 1040 and 1040-SR returns can be amended electronically. Please see IR-2020-107 and IR-2020-182 for additional information.

How to file amended tax returns for more than one year?

You should explain what you are changing and the reasons why on the back of the form. More than one year. If you file an amended return for more than one year, use a separate 1040X for each tax year. Mail them in separate envelopes to the IRS. See “Where to File” in the instructions for Form 1040X for the address you should use.

How to check the status of an amended return?

Filers can check the status of a paper or electronically filed Form 1040-X Amended Return using the Where’s My Amended Return (WMAR) online tool or the toll-free telephone number 866-464-2050​ three weeks after filing the return. Both tools are available in English and Spanish.